Surfing School, Padang Padang Surf Camp, Bali

Ever dream of riding the waves? Then sign up at this camp on Bali’s southern peninsula that’s within walking distance of some of the island’s best breaks.

The Overview

Led by experienced and fully trained Balinese surfers, lessons for novices start in the swimming pool, where students are taught how to handle and balance on their boards. Then it’s time to hit the beach. Don’t worry if the waves are too big—instructors lead students to breaks that match their ability. Outside of lessons, students are free to do what they want, though they’re encouraged to spend at least two hours a day in the water.

Roughing it, thankfully, isn’t required at this camp; budding surfers lodge in airy, tile-floored rooms housed in two Wi-Fi-equipped tropical mod villas set on either side of a large swimming pool. And while graduates probably won’t join the ASP World Tour, Padang Padang’s owner Andrew Roberts does make one promise: “They’ll walk away exhilarated from having experienced the best sport in the world in the world’s best location for it.”

Cost: One-week program from €445 per person when booking for two, including accommodation, two meals a day, surf guide, beach transfers, and daily lessons